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He had a heart of gold, but there was no way he could ever comprehend the weight on my shoulders. That my mother would literally hunt me down and drag me away when she reached the end of her patience. “I’m afraid not. And anyway,ifI were to be attracted to the fair Cecilia, andifI were to become involved with her, then I’d fear what my mother might do. Assuming she found out, which she most likely would.”
Aaron made a face. “What she’d do? Like what?”
“I dread to think. I’m being deadly serious though. She’s verging on the sociopathic, when it comes to her prejudices and protecting our family bloodline and standing in Fae society.”
“You mean—”
“But enough about me, old chap. Why don’t you go and dance with your quadrouple? Go on, enjoy yourself.” I gestured with my whisky tumbler towards the spot where Ceci, Jax and Xander were drawing increasing attention for their dancing. “Looks like the other two are having all the fun.”
Aaron shook his head. “There are students everywhere. She’s a student, I’m a professor. Even with the university signing off on our dating—so long as another professor grades her work—I’d feel awkward, with everyone looking. I’d rather—” Gazing at Ceci, I heard a grumble rise from deep within his chest. A bear-like one. He stood, agitated, his cheeks flaring red.
“Are you okay, Aaron? That sounded likehewas making his voice known.”
Aaron necked his beer, finishing it with a satisfied gasp. “Don’t worry, he’s under control. I’m not sure I am though.”
With that, he strode around the pool area to the dancefloor, into Ceci’s embrace, where he leaned into her ear and whispered something to her. She nodded a “yes” to whatever he’d asked. The vamp and the wolf looked a bit dejected at the interruption, but she smiled at them both and kissed them. Then she let Aaron take her hand, still swaying to the music as he led her off into the house. Before they disappeared among the sea of revelers, I caught a glimpse of her leaning into him and looking up at him with such devotion.
I drained my glass dry. Lucky bugger.
Was it okay to be jealous of your best friend?
Cecilia
Ikissed Jax and Xander a quick goodbye on the dance floor then Aaron’s large hand wrapped around mine. He gripped my hand gently, but enveloped it so completely, it made me feel safe as he led me away through the crowd. I couldn’t help but stop for a moment before we entered the house, leaning into his solid warmth, looking up to catch his gaze and giving him a soft smile.
Once inside, on the main level, we passed so many partiers, including even what looked like a human or two. We kept going, up a flight of stairs and through corridors, until the thump of dance music dimmed, there wasn’t a person in sight, and the party’s laughter and noise reduced to a muffle.
Once we reached the top floor, he led me to Xander’s study. I knew exactly where we were because Xander had given me, Aaron and Jax a private tour before everyone arrived. This was one of the rooms where Xander managed coven business. And even though it was accessed by a keypad, he’d shared the code with us.
“I guess I should’ve asked sooner, but it’s okay if we have a quiet moment?” Aaron paused outside the door.
“I knew what you were up to the moment you whisperedlet’s go get a drinkin my ear but then didn’t take me for one.” I grinned, trying to show I was exactly where I wanted to be.
“You’re thirsty?” He looked troubled.
“No, I want the same thing you do.” I gripped his hand tighter. “I’d love a quiet moment.”
Aaron entered the code and after he flicked on the overhead lights and we stepped inside, the door shut and locked with a click and a beep behind us.
I barely noticed the large desk, leather couch, and towering bookcases that I’d admired earlier, my eyes running over Aaron’s large frame instead. I’d forgotten to tell him when he’d picked me up at my apartment, he looked great. His look reminded me of Osric’s, except of course Aaron was twice the size and sporting scruff. And Aaron was Mr. Smiley not Mr. Scowly.
I slid forward, leaning into him. He stooped, understanding exactly what I wanted—as he always did—and I reached up, virtually on tip toes, so I could wrap my arms round his neck. He circled his arms behind my back, holding me close. Our noses grazed.
“I forgot to tell you, nice outfit.” I ran a hand over the smooth cotton covering his shoulder.
“Thank you.” His cheeks pinkened. “Not too much? Not really my usual style.”
“I love your usual look too. I hope you can tell, I love everything about you.” I peeked up to try to read how he’d react to that.
His arms and chest grew warmer through his shirt. “I feel the same.” His voice was gruff and he brushed a lock of hair behind my ear. “If I didn’t think it would scare you away, I’d say a lot more.”
My heart started to beat faster. “I don’t scare easily.”
He cleared his throat and his hands moved from my back to my shoulders, giving them a gentle squeeze. “But I didn’t bring you here to get so serious. It’s a party. I was hoping we could have a dance?” He asked tentatively. “Sorry, there’s no music. Let me…” He reached into his pocket for his phone.
“Why didn’t you join us earlier?” I stopped his hand, encouraging him to leave his phone where it was.
He shrugged, his face showing a flash of sadness. “New Nebraska is pretty open, but I thought it best to keep my distance. I pushed things at the game. But I don’t want anyone to think I’m taking advantage of you.”
